EngD student 2010-2014

University: Imperial College London

Sponsoring company: Rolls-Royce Submarines

EngD research: Modelling the ultrasonic response from rough defects using efficient Finite Element Modelling techniques

Within the UK nuclear power generation industry, it is essential to demonstrate continued and safe operation thought the support of a stringent safety case.  To aid in achieving this goal, ultrasonic NDE inspection techniques are used to demonstrate an absence of any potential defect types that may be of structural concern.  This project focused on the development of Finite Element modelling techniques to better understand the ultrasonic scattering from rough defects types, and specifically how the physical geometry of the defect can impact detectability. Ultimately, the findings of this work helped to establish less conservative, yet safe, reporting thresholds for defects that could potentially threaten the structural integrity of the plant.

Current role: Frazer Nash Consultancy – Engineer

Following the EngD I joined Frazer-Nash Consultancy as a member of the Engineering Analyse Team. This has given me a great opportunity to work on a vast number of engineering projects, including the occasional NDE project. Although the type of industry and sector of my day-to-day work varies, they all require the use of the numerical and evaluation skills I developed during the EngD.